The Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions is calling for feedback on an Australian-first initiative to provide casual workers with sick-pay entitlements.
Minister for Workplace Safety, Ingrid Stitt said the Department’s Secure Work Pilot Scheme consultation paper proposed that casual or insecure workers should receive up to five days total of sick or carer’s pay at the national minimum wage.
“The Secure Work Pilot Scheme will help look after our most vulnerable workers,” Ms Stitt said.
“The pandemic has highlighted how unfair and dangerous it can be for a worker to have to choose between keeping their co-workers and community safe and paying the bills,” she said.
“Beginning in the first half of next year, the Government’s two-year pilot will protect many Victorian workers from having to make that terrible choice, as well as supporting them to take time off if they need to care for a loved one.”
Ms Stitt said the Scheme would allow people who were unwell to stay at home, which would reduce the spread of illness in the workplace.
The Minister said workers in occupations with high levels of insecurity such as private sector aged care staff, cleaners, hospitality staff, security guards and supermarket workers would be among the first to benefit from the pilot.
“Government is calling for submissions from industry, workers, unions and the community to help shape the Scheme and ensure it supports workers, benefits business and safeguards the health of our community,” she said.
“Public input will be vital in shaping the Scheme – and we want to hear from any workers who have been forced to choose between a day’s pay and their health – and the health of every Victorian.”
Ms Stitt said further targeted consultation with industries most likely to be affected would take place throughout the year and during the operation of the pilot.
The Department’s 16-page Consultation Paper, including information on how to have a say, can be accessed at this PS News link.
